Introduction to Computer Science: Art + Code (f) 76615 Eng & CompSci - GA

The GA Upper School Engineering and Computer Science Department works to build on the foundation of creating, designing, and computing that students developed during their time in our Lower and Middle Schools. The studies of engineering and computer science invoke problem solving, designing with a purpose, building to specification, and algorithmic thinking, all while promoting both collaborative work and independent resourcefulness. We aim to provide our students with an understanding of how these tools can be used in the real world and believe that possessing the ability to design objects and software, and to write software prepares students for the problems and opportunities of the 21st century. We provide courses for those who are new to writing code and the process of physical computing so they can not only understand foundational engineering principles and computer science but also become better thinkers. We also offer coursework for those who would like to pursue advanced work through the AP curriculum and beyond.

The fall semester Introduction to Computer Science courses serves as the entry point to all the more advanced Computer Science courses offered at Greenwich Academy.

76615 Grade Level: 9th - 12th Prerequisite: None

Would you love to make art in a new way and learn to code in the process? Designed to build a foundation in computer science fundamentals within the context of art-making practice, Introduction to CS: Art and Code, is a computer science/creative technologies course enabling students to use code as an expressive medium for creating and understanding art and engaging in digital creation as a way to understand algorithms.

Students will progress through a series of projects that will build skill and understanding of core programming concepts, including data types, conditional and loops, data structures, and functions. Whether we are building projects on the web, or using laser cutting and 3D-printing for the making of coded works, the creations of this class will be expressed as digital or physical works to be shared and exhibited. Assessments will be varied, including both projects and more traditional pen-and-paper work.

This entry level course will prepare students with all of the coding, problem solving, and debugging skills needed for AP Computer Science A, as well as equip students with a skill set in new media and creative coding in the visual arts.